
American Shield
The Immigrant Sergeant Who Defended Democracy
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Narrated by:
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Robb Moreira
About this listen
Set against the extraordinary events of January 6, 2021, Aquilino Gonell’s inspirational memoir is rooted in the joys and struggles of the immigrant experience that have long defined the American experiment
Aquilino Gonell came to the United States from the Dominican Republic as a young boy. Although he spoke no English, he dedicated himself to his adopted land, striving for the American dream. Determined to be a success story, he joined the army to pay for college. He saw action in Iraq and returned home with PTSD. Believing in the promise of our government, he focused on healing himself and supporting his family. His hard work paid off when he landed a coveted position with the United States Capitol Police and rose to the rank of sergeant.
January 6, 2021, changed everything. When insurrectionists stormed the Capitol, Gonell bravely faced down the mob attempting to thwart the peaceful transfer of power. The brutal injuries he sustained that day would end his career in law enforcement. But when some of the very people he put his life on the line to protect downplayed or denied the truth of that day, he chose to speak out against the injustice done to him and the country. Chronicling what it means to live a life of conviction, one that adheres to the best ideas of our democracy, American Shield is a bold testament to the power of truth, justice, and accountability from a highly decorated officer and immigrant who exemplifies the greatest aspirations of a grateful nation.
©2023 Aquilino Gonell and Susan Shapiro (P)2023 Recorded BooksListeners also enjoyed...
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Courage and grit
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Sgt Gonels bravery
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True American experience
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Detailed and compelling
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Fascinating Read
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Immigrant, Soldier, Capitol Police Officer
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It horrifies me that so many people still downplay the events of that day, calling it a "hoax", or a "peaceful protest", or simply say it was "no big deal". Those people, more than any, need to read this book, but I doubt any will.
This book is utterly worth your time!
Incredibly powerful and moving book!
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The sergeant's patriotism
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He spoke from the heart, and retold his life’s story eloquently.
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A real hero
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